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Kuwejt

Practical info Kuwejt, Kuwejt

Getting around the city

Public transport in Kuwait City is limited to a sporadic bus system, so the only practical way to get around if you don't have a car is by taxi. There are three basic taxi types: call taxis, which are booked by phone and primarily serve hotels and the airport, charge generally higher rates; airport taxis charge a flat fee printed on the side (although drivers may try to demand more); and orange taxis can be hailed in the streets, and charge negotiable rates. Hiring a car is also a popular option for getting around in Kuwait.

Time

GMT +3.

Electricity

240 volts, 50Hz. Both the UK-style three-pin and European-style two-pin plugs are in use (Type G and C).

Currency

Kuwait's currency is the Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD). Major credit cards are widely accepted. Currency is best taken in US Dollars or British Pounds, with the Indian Rupee (INR) also easy to exchange. There are banks with foreign exchange facilities in the large centres and ATMs are plentiful. Many banks are open from 8am to 3pm from Sunday to Thursday, but some banks have more varied hours. ATMs are usually open 24 hours.

Communication

The international dialling code for Kuwait is +965. Full international direct dialling is available. Local mobile service providers operate on GSM networks, which have active roaming agreements with most international mobile phone operators. All telecommunications services are of a high quality in Kuwait, however, there are occasional disruptions to internet connections nationwide. Internet cafes are available throughout Kuwait.

Climate

Kuwait City enjoys a hot desert climate. Summer months are between June and October and the rainy season (if you can call it that) runs from December to February, when humidity can also be high. In summer temperatures can rise above 113°F (45°C), but they drop below 50°F (10°C) in winter.

Kuwait International Airport

Getting to the city

Taxis and buses are available to take passengers to Kuwait City. Taxis are reasonably priced, but it is important to travel with reputable companies. The buses leave from outside Arrivals roughly every 45 minutes; buses can often be crowded. The trip to the city centre takes around 30 minutes.

Car rental

A car rental desk is located in Arrivals and includes companies like Avis, Budget and Hertz.

Airport taxi's

There are many different taxi companies and types of taxis available from the airport. It is advisable to book a taxi at Arrivals, as drivers are notorious for overcharging unsuspecting travellers.

Facilities

The first-class lounges offer five-star catering, a children's play area, hot shower facilities and high-speed internet. The Commercial Centre Complex is linked directly to the Arrival and Departure halls of the airport terminal and includes facilities such as duty-free shopping and popular retailers, as well as a variety of food and beverage outlets. Other services offered are banks, a help desk and facilities for the disabled.

Parking

There is a multi-storey car park next to the mall and a street-level car park outside of the arrivals hall available for both short- and long-term stays. There is also a valet parking service available.

Internet

There are several wifi hotspots at Kuwait International Airport, including the check-in area, departure gates, and many shops and restaurants in the Commercial Centre.